Official talks were held this morning, as part of the official visit being made by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, His Excellency Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak and First Lady, Madam Datin Paduka Seri Rosmah Mansor, upon invitation by the President and First Lady of the Maldives.
The Maldivian delegation at the official talks was led by President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, and the Malaysian delegation was led by Prime Minister of Malaysia H.E. Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak.
Discussions mainly focused on strengthening ties between the two countries in the areas of economic cooperation, education, youth development, health, culture and defense cooperation. The President and the Malaysian Prime Minister also discussed matters of mutual interest at international and regional levels.
Speaking at the official talks, President Yameen stated that the top priority of this administration was achieving economic resilience, and said that the newly introduced Special Economic Zones framework provides special economic incentives and introduces a flexible environment for mega investments in the Maldives. He also underscored that foreign direct investment was imperative for, private sector development, and boost overall economic growth. Moreover the President encouraged investors from Malaysia to take up such opportunities to forge meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships with the Maldives.
During the official talks President proposed the facilitation of a youth exchange program for Maldivian and Malaysian youth to share experiences and to learn from each other’s culture. He further shed light on the MoU to be signed today on the establishment of a Maldivian Cultural Centre in Malaysia.
Speaking at the talks, President shed light on the challenge of shortage of health professionals in Maldives and stated that the discussions today will culminate with the signing of a MoU on health cooperation which will definitely pave the way for capacity building in the health sector.
During the Official talks President deliberated on topics with mutual interests in the international arena including climate change and sustainable development, promoting Islamic values and combating terrorism and radicalization.
The Malaysian Prime Minister shared some of his administration's key strategies towards making government and state services even more accessible to the people and highlighted that Malaysian businesses are currently investing in the Maldives and looking towards further key investments and projects in the Maldives.
Speaking at the official talks the Prime Minister noted that Malaysia places great emphasis on infrastructure and development; including public housing — underlining that both countries are suited as development partners.
During the talks President Yameen and the Malaysian Prime Minister emphasized that Malaysia and Maldives can be an example of what the true, and peaceful, values of the Islamic faith stands for.
Prior to the official talks, President Yameen and the Malaysian Prime Minister had a one-to-one meeting at the President’s Office. The governments of Maldives and Malaysia will sign a number of memoranda of understanding during the Prime Minister's two day visit.
